Bhubaneswar: The skeletal remains of Ramu, the oldest and largest male elephant in Chandaka-Dampada Sanctuary, will be exhumed today for scientific preservation.
According to reports, Ramu died on August 19, 2024, due to an electric shock in the Bharatpur protected forest area.
A 25-member team led by wildlife expert Dr Shiva Prasad Parida will conduct the exhumation and preservation process. Earlier, the team had reviewed the ground conditions and technical requirements necessary for safely excavating and preserving the skeletal remains.
It is learnt that the skeletal remains will be transported to the Godibari Prakriti Nivas near Bhubaneswar, where they will be preserved through a scientific conservation process after the recovery of the mortal remains. The elephant’s remains will be treated with chemicals and preserved for display.
The exhumation process has been scheduled for today, a second Saturday, to avoid public disturbance. The preservation of Ramu’s remains has been demanded by various quarters, and departmental approval has been obtained for the process.
It is learnt that the mighty elephant Ramu used to create terror in the Chandaka area for years by damaging crops and houses at Bharatpur, Andharua, Malim Road, Malipada, Shamapur, Gothapatana, and Khordha Range Ratnapur on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar.
